It was a privilege to have served as your Fremont councilmember for eight years, from 2000 to 2008. Fremont was moving forward. In the last four years, our City has changed quite a bit. We have spent our uncommitted reserves and there is a large unfunded pension liability that puts our City at financial risk. In fairness, these have been difficult economic times for everyone. Regardless, leadership is lacking.

Today, Fremont faces economic challenges and challenges create opportunities for us to grow into an even stronger community. Steering Fremont to a more successful future begins with all of us working together. We have many great resources and, as Mayor, I will put them to use.

For example, we have a well-respected school district that offers a quality education for our children. Families want their children to go through our school system. The City and the school district must also work together to ensure balanced development. We have large commercial areas for businesses to come here and grow.

As I have stated at every meeting where I speak, businesses bring jobs. Jobs bring increasing revenues. More revenues allow us to better financially support our public safety - police and fire - along with road maintenance and other City services.

Supporting public safety and City services ensures we can achieve the recognition of Fremont as the fourth largest city in the Bay Area. Fremont needs a Downtown with places to walk, dine, shop. A first-class Performing Arts Center can unify Fremont. Many have shared with me how important a Performing and Cultural Arts Center is to our community. I agree. It is time to move forward on this along with developing and keeping the character of our historic areas.

Like you, I am tired of hearing promises from candidates and then see them forgotten once the candidate is elected. People want us candidates to keep our promises. With my daughter now grown and an M.D., and me being retired, I will be a full-time Mayor for Fremont; reaching out to all citizens and business owners to ensure we meet our community's needs.

At most of the community events I attend, you also see my wife, Amy. You will also often see a tremendous team of volunteers who are excited and ready to continue working hard after the election. Amy and I are very proud of our team! I am a native Californian and Fremont has been our home for 38 years. The decision about who will become Fremont's next Mayor is yours. My commitment is to do all I can to improve the quality of life for all of us here. My campaign is For The People. It is For You!

Fremont has great potential and leadership is important. There are many fine candidates running for Mayor. Some are loyal friends to many of you. However, when you cast your vote, support FREMONT!

VOTE STEVE CHO FOR MAYOR! THE #1 CHOICE ON THE BALLOT!

For more information, visit http://SteveCho4Mayor.com

Candidate statements and audio campaign messages are available online at www.tricityvoice.com; click on the "Election 2012" button to hear what the candidates have to say.